One of the leading scholars in American politics – and of the most prominent experts in the field of political interest groups – will hold a series of engaging events on the campus of East Tennessee State University.

Dr. Anthony J. Nownes holds the Wayne G. Basler Chair of Excellence for the Integration of the Arts, Rhetoric and Science for the spring 2025 semester at East Tennessee State University.

The Basler Chair, established in the 1990s, is a prestigious university post designed to bring distinguished scholars to ETSU, enriching both the academic and local community through lectures, workshops and innovative ideas.

Nownes, a professor at the University of Tennessee-Knoxville, holds a Ph.D. from the University of Kansas. His groundbreaking research focuses on the role of interest groups in American politics, and his 2006 book, “Total Lobbying: What Lobbyists Want (and How They Try to Get It)” remains an authoritative text in the field.  

“Dr. Nownes’ expertise in interest group politics and his ability to translate complex political dynamics into accessible insights make him a tremendous asset for our students and the community,” said Dr. Colin R. Glennon, professor and chair of the Department of Political Science, International Affairs and Public Administration at ETSU. “We are thrilled to welcome such a respected scholar as the 2025 Basler Chair.”

Upcoming events  

Nownes will present a series of engaging lectures that explore some of the most pressing questions in American politics today. Each event is free and open to the public.

  • Monday, Feb. 17, at 7 p.m. in Brown Hall, 261: “Reflections from the 2024 Election”
  • Friday, March 7, at 3 p.m. in the D.P. Culp Student Center Forum: “Where Does All the Money Come From? Campaign Finance in the USA and Why It Matters”
  • Monday, March 31, at 7 p.m. in Rogers-Stout Hall, 102: “Are Interest Groups Good or Bad?”
  • Tuesday, April 22, at 4 p.m. in Ball Hall, 127: “Do Celebrities Matter in American Politics? The Impact of Celebrity Endorsements in Elections”

The Basler Chair lectures provide a unique opportunity for students, faculty and members of the public to engage with cutting-edge scholarship and gain a deeper understanding of critical issues.